Duality/The Red Room

As new arrivals, immigrants often lead two lives: their life based on their country of origin and their new life in America. Through photographs of individuals in the clothing of their culture of origin and as they appear as assimilated Americans, this artwork visually demonstrates the dual nature of the immigrant experience. Viewers are invited to rotate the exhibited photographs to view both sides of the framed prints and experience firsthand the duality that shapes the lives of our nation’s immigrants. 

Mireles modeled this wall after The Red Room at the White House. By placing the photographs within a decorative scheme similar to that found at the center of our nation’s power and prestige, the individuals are themselves elevated. The reverse side of the wall consists of plainly painted corrugated metal reminiscent of the often humble origins experienced by many who leave or flee their home country for opportunities in America.

Mireles conceived, designed and constructed this installation.